Sunshine Coast Destination charts new direction with key new executive appointments

Queensland's Sunshine Coast Destination Ltd (SCDL) is to appoint a new chair, following the decision of current Chairman, Barrie Adams, to step down after almost three years on the Board.

The SCDL Board has instituted a targeted search for a new chair with the right qualifications in tourism to help guide SCDL through a new era of progress and development with the new postholder expected to be announced when Adams steps down at the SCDL Annual General Meeting in November.

The appointment of a new chair follows the recent recruitment of a new Chief Executive, Simon Ambrose, and Head of Marketing, who will join the organisation in the coming weeks.

The Board thanked Adams for his commitment to SCDL, saying that he had done an excellent job setting up the infrastructure for the new team.

A statement issued by the Board read: "It has been a difficult three years in the tourism sector, and Sunshine Coast has faced serious natural and economic challenges, but Barrie made a solid contribution and leaves behind a new operational team who are well placed to make the most of the region's quality tourism resources.

"SCDL is now well-positioned to perform strongly, with expertise in digital marketing, that includes a comprehensive on-line platform. The Sunshine Coast is building its reputation for events, and has established an excellent series of special-interest trails, and secured an increasing number of major conferences to the Sunshine Coast."

Adams said that it had been an honour to have served on the Board since the inception of Sunshine Coast Destination Ltd, and that he would now have the time to concentrate on his other corporate and personal interests.

Adams stated "the priority for the organisation has been to build a strong team and infrastructure to cater for the new world of travel marketing.

"I think we have an excellent new team in place now, and under the leadership of CEO Simon Ambrose, I am confident that the Sunshine Coast has the talent and resources to continue achieving significant increases in domestic and international visitation.

"I am particularly proud that we have built a membership base of over 700 members as well as extending our partnership network to neighbouring regions to allow greater promotion of the wider area. We have also built a far closer working relationship with Tourism and Events Queensland to create a more integrated approach to brand and tactical marketing.

"It has been a very satisfying three years and I would like to thank my fellow Board Directors and the energetic team at SCDL for their continued effort, professionalism and dedication to their roles, during these often challenging times."

For more information go to www.scdl.com.au

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